Located on the Papagayo Peninsula, a 1,400-acre stretch of dry tropical forest perched on coastal cliffs, Nekajui features a collection of 107 ocean-view rooms and suites, as well as three luxurious treetop tents, all thoughtfully designed. Its unique style seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living while celebrating Costa Rica's rich cultural heritage.
Owned by Mohari Hospitality and Gencom, and developed by The Athens Group, the resort offers a variety of accommodations ranging from spacious rooms, starting at 81 square meters, to one- and two-bedroom suites, the luxurious four-bedroom Nekajui Grand Villa, and 36 private residences with two to five bedrooms. For those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, the property offers Villa Guayacán, a 10-bedroom retreat surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
“Nekajui embodies the essence of our Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, created for those who seek the rare and the unknown,” said Tina Edmundson, president of Luxury at Marriott International. “This secluded sanctuary on the Papagayo Peninsula, our eighth Reserve property and the first in Central and South America, immerses guests in the natural splendor and cultural richness of Costa Rica. Every detail reflects a deep connection to the destination, from its thoughtful design and rigorously curated art to wellness and dining experiences inspired by the local essence. Nekajui is not just a place to visit, but a space to feel, discover, and transform.”
A Design in Harmony with Nature
Nekajui’s architecture serves as a paradigm of exceptional luxury that pays homage to the culture and nature of Guanacaste, fusing indigenous materials and sustainable design with a contemporary and refined style. This beachfront resort, built with local materials such as indigenous stone and wood, and using eco-friendly practices, evokes a deep connection with its natural surroundings. The elegantly simple design reflects a commitment to environmental preservation, incorporating low-impact and resource-efficient materials throughout the resort.
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into La Casita, inspired by traditional Costa Rican villages, before entering La Casona, the resort's spacious and light-filled lounge, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Papagayo coast. A modern interpretation of Guanacaste's historic haciendas, La Casona pays homage to the traditional ranchers of the Sabana and the spirit of the region through architectural elements that honor their heritage. Secret gardens and hidden trails offer endless opportunities for discovery. Nekajui's extensive art collection, meticulously selected and curated, includes more than 550 pieces, including nearly 125 original works by more than 30 Latin American artists.
Nearby, a majestic ceiba tree in the central courtyard between La Casita and La Casona stands as a cultural focal point, connecting guests to the region's history. La Capilla, located adjacent to La Casona, is inspired by the personal chapels of the region's haciendas and adorned with 650,000 locally handcrafted mosaics, symbolizing the power of connection. Ideal for social events and gatherings, La Capilla embodies the warmth of community and shared experiences.
With framed views of Pochote Beach and the Pacific Ocean, the resort's elegant guestrooms feature floor-to-ceiling multi-panel glass doors that reveal stunning seascapes. Gardens with outdoor showers, private plunge pools, and deep soaking tubs invite guests to a sensorial experience surrounded by natural beauty. Contemporary interiors reveal refined craftsmanship, highlighting custom local woodworking and traditional details that reflect the vibrant colors of the region's flora and fauna. Chorotega-inspired décor, including goldwork, clay and wood pottery, stone, and handmade local tiles, enhances Nekajui's unique character and transports guests to a timeless sanctuary that enhances Costa Rica's tropical paradise.
Culinary Journeys That Bring Local Ingredients to Life
Nekajui's culinary and cocktail destinations, rooted in Costa Rican heritage and crafted by world-class talent, promise an epicurean journey as transformative as the destination itself. At the center of the resort's culinary offerings is Puna, the signature restaurant conceived by acclaimed Chef Diego Muñoz. Recognized for his role in the creation of modern Peruvian cuisine, Chef Muñoz masterfully blends indigenous ingredients with sophisticated international techniques to create an immersive dining experience. Inspired by the Andean highlands and lush landscapes of Costa Rica, Puna will also offer an exclusive Asian-Peruvian-style Omakase experience for six guests. To achieve this, indigenous flavors will be combined with precise Asian techniques, offering a sophisticated multi-sensory journey.
Executive Chef Lulu Elizaga spearheads the resort's culinary program, bringing her global experience and creative vision to every dish. Nestled among the treetops just steps from the beach, the modern Niri Beach Club, accessed via an elegant funicular, offers a stunning setting for dinner and cocktails until sunset, featuring a menu inspired by Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. This private beach club celebrates earth and fire with a wood-fired oven, Iberian-inspired dishes, varieties of fresh waters, and modern takes on beach classics. Poolside, located near the resort's infinity pool, offers casual Latin-style dining with a wide selection of fresh seafood. Meanwhile, Ámbar, a bar suspended in a treetop, named for the gem "amber," with its golden and yellow hues evoking a sunset, brings vibrant cocktails to life amidst lush Costa Rican flora and celestial decorations. Meanwhile, La Casona Bar offers a new take on the traditional lobby bar with a botanical touch, offering cocktails infused with local herbs and flowers made with ingredients sourced directly from the resort's gardens, accompanied by a selection of delicious tapas, snacks, and appetizers.
Nekajui's innovative beverage program was created exclusively with The Herball, mixology specialists renowned for designing sustainable and culturally grounded drinks, tonics, and cocktails. This collaboration elevates the bar experience by blending local botanicals with innovative techniques to embody the natural spirit of Costa Rica. The Herball's unique menus come to life at Nekajui's restaurants, bars, and lounges, including Café Rincón, which celebrates Costa Rica's rich coffee and cacao heritage with handcrafted concoctions, creative cocktail creations, and a light gourmet menu.
For those seeking a deeper connection to the land, the resort's Dining Beyond program offers unparalleled private culinary experiences. Whether dining in treetop retreats or under the stars on a secluded beach, these exclusive moments immerse guests in the breathtaking beauty of the Papagayo Peninsula.
A New Wellness Destination
Named after the Chorotega word for "water," Nimbu Spa & Wellness occupies a sprawling 2,500 square meters and houses a stunning hydrotherapy pool designed to highlight the restorative power of water. Nimbu invites guests to embark on a journey of profound rejuvenation, conscious well-being, and spiritual renewal. Additionally, wellness experts have designed personalized journeys that integrate local elements, such as Chorotega pottery, volcanic mud, and essential oils from the juanilama tree. Signature experiences include Harmonic Monochord Healing, a treetop ritual that uses vibrational energy to relax and restore. Meanwhile, the Volcanic Lift facial detoxifies and brightens the skin using volcanic glass and activated charcoal, combined with reflexology for a revitalizing glow. Accessed via a suspended pedestrian bridge and tranquil garden paths, the spa blends seamlessly into its lush natural surroundings.
With an innovative design that immerses guests in the tranquility of the rainforest, Nimbu features individual treatment cabins perched high in the trees, private spa suites, and saunas with stunning panoramic water views—each space created to soothe the senses and inspire the soul.
An Adventure Without Limits
Beyond its world-class facilities, Nekajui invites guests to immerse themselves in the wonders of The Outpost at Palmares Preserve, a 250-acre sanctuary surrounding the resort. This protected paradise is home to three distinct ecosystems within a compact area. Led by in-house adventure organizers, The Explorers, The Outpost offers exciting outdoor activities such as ziplining, guided nature walks, and canoeing excursions through the enchanting mangroves.
For surf lovers, nearby Santa Rosa National Park offers legendary waves at Witch's Rock and Ollie's Point, where SurfX pros guide guests through the essence of pura vida. Other water sports, including windsurfing, paddleboarding, scuba diving, snorkeling, and sailing, invite guests to discover the wilderness.
Golfers can enjoy the private 18-hole, par-72 Arnold Palmer Signature Course on the Papagayo Peninsula. Nestled amid 125 acres of ancient forest, valleys, and sea cliffs, the course boasts wide fairways and stunning views. The clubhouse and Racquet Center, conveniently located within walking distance of the resort, further enhance this world-class golf destination.
“At Nekajui, every moment is an invitation to reconnect: with the heartbeat of Costa Rica, its sacred landscapes, and, most intimately, with your own spirit,” said Ana Gorjão Henriques, General Manager of Nekajui, Nekajui, at Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Papagayo Peninsula. “We are thrilled to welcome guests to this hidden sanctuary, where meticulous design, artful cuisine, and transformative wellness converge, creating experiences that continue to resonate long after departure.”
Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is owned by Mohari Hospitality and Gencom, and developed by The Athens Group, highlighting the company's commitment to delivering impactful, sustainable luxury experiences in exceptional destinations.